THE R&A SETS OUT PLANS FOR A SAFE RETURN

The R&A has set out its plans for a safe return to golf, once the COVID-19 lockdown measures are relaxed.

Over the last few weeks, The R&A has been working with a range of bodies to develop guidance on how golf could be played in the UK when the government decides it is safe to begin lifting the current restrictions.

On Wednesday, The R&A published a statement that sets out its guidelines on the measures that will be required when the game returns under Cover-19 restrictions.

The guidelines for playing golf cover five main areas:
a. Course set-up
b. Before the Round
c. During the Round
d. After the Round
e. Rules of Golf-related Matters.

Industry guidelines for golf facilities have also been published.

The R&A said:

"These procedures will include all aspects of the golfing experience, from arrival in the car park shortly before the round to departure straight away on completion of the round. Golfers will be required to comply with the rules on social distancing throughout. Some temporary provisions in relation to the Rules of Golf will also be necessary to ensure safe play."

To read the full statement from The R&A click on the link below:
xxxhttps://www.randa.org/golf-in-the-uk-under-covid-19-restrictions

The guidelines formed part of a submission made this week by the R&A to the U.K. government on behalf of key golf industry stakeholders to show that golf can resume safely, provided social distancing measures are followed. The response, so far, has been positive.

Craig Tracey, The Chairman of the UK Parliament’s All-Party Group for Golf, said:

“I have been hugely impressed by the response of the different leading golf stakeholders in coming together and working to secure a coherent response to COVID-19. Members of Parliament know how valuable golf is to the UK as it has a huge economic impact, employs large numbers across the UK and has significant positive influence on people’s health.

“The initial challenges with lockdown meant golf had to close in Britain, but the nature of the game means it can, and should, return quickly provided there are steps taken by all involved to maintain social distancing and to meet any other government instruction.”

While there is yet no official date for when golf may resume in the UK, the plans prepared by The R&A and its key industry partners will help to ensure that the industry is ready when it does.